I love my 2004 G35 RWD. It's still loads of fun to drive, but I'm getting the itch real bad. Realistically, I probably resist my coupe desires -- never got over my '03 -- to be a bit more practical with another sedan.

My challenge is I haven't tracked all the changes in the last few years, but from some initial trolling there seem to be a few key differences here and there.

I typically prefer buying used, but I also have access to VPP biz assoc pricing (but missed the Aug/Sep special).

So that said .. Which year is really the best? '10, '11, or '12?

One of the reasons I want to change is for the current technology like iPhone/iPod integration, so I'm somewhat assuming '12 is best but not sure.

Anyone want to chime in?

Thanks!

 

If you want a 6spd then the newer the better since it'll have more features.
If you want an auto IMO the 08 5AT is a great choice if you can find one in clean, lower mileage condition. The wheels look much nicer on the 08 sports than the current crop of fugly Infiniti wheels and the 5AT is a great transmission. Having an 07 5AT and now an 09 7speed, I miss the quick slamming 5 speed and the very decisive nature of the transmission. The 7AT isn't bad, but has a few quirks that deter from the overall drive, that would be more important to me than a few of the high tech features in the latest Auto equipped Gs. I also prefer the 07-09 grills, but that's just my taste.

 

10, 11, 12 are essentially the same.

 

Get 11' above models. less hassle dealing with those issues encountered in the past years. also the new look since 10' are very aggressive and sharp. the front lights look way better than previous models IMO. its a blast to drive!

 

If you have VPP go try to get a left over 11 for super cheap. Figure a discount of $3,500, then $1,200 with you VPP + $1,000 rebate on the 2011..Plus 1.9% financing up to 66 months! Simple interest, not backloaded, no pre-payment penalties. You, with VPP, can walk away with a VERY good deal.

 

i came from an '04 6MT sedan, upgraded to the '09 a couple years ago. there is no "best" year, it's just up to your personal preferences. the '10-'11 have a different front grille & bumper w/fog lights. if that's your taste then go for one of those. it wasn't for me so i went with the '09. obviously if budget is no concern and you like the newer style, then go newer. i suspect you might have to take what you can find if you want a 6MT sedan - they are few and far between.

the gen 2 sedan has a much nicer interior then my '04, and the Nav works great. as for power, i'm hard-pressed to see much difference between the two. i know that on paper the g37 is quicker and faster but my '04 felt quicker off the line. it was lighter so that may explain it. the 6MT gearbox feels similar in both cars, no significant changes there: sturdy, but not the smoothest.

 

In all honesty, I think the best looking year for the sedan: 10+
The new fascia along with the factory lip are incredibly aggressive! Not to mention the smaller rear bumper (the dip) -- I like the smaller, more defined line of the rear bumpers on the newer 10+ bumpers. Everything else however, is identical. I'm also a fan of the gauges (blue and white) along with the newer metallic (gunmetal) trimming on the interior.

DO IT!!! lol

 

+1!

I can't emphasize enough the somewhat minor improvement in the center console, especially with the wood. If you do 10+ and you like wood, you have to get it. Far better quality than previous and looks great with the new interior design.

 

I have 11' and love my sedan to extreme!

however i didnt get the wood, i just think with G's appearance, the wood will look a bit ,, classsy? but .. a bit less sporty? IMOWK

 

The stock 10+ fascia Slightly edited, but completely 100% stock!

 

the 10+ have nicer exterior but the 07 and 08 2nd gen with 3.5 engine is the best because of the engine and the five speed transmittion, its just like bread and butter

 

HOW!?
5 SPD VS 7 SPD? compression ratio the same!

 

I love my 11.The sport is so much fun to drive.

 

I also had an '04 G35 and traded it for the '11 G37S Limited Edition.

I'm happy.

 

Because the 5 speed didn't have the glitches, lag and hesitation that the 7 speed has. Don't get me wrong, I love the 09+ Sedans, they've refined and improved most things on the car except that 7 speed, it's not bad, but if you owned an 07 or 08 w/ the 5AT I think you'd get where we're coming from.